News and Finance

Cargill Inc. plans to close its Toronto, Ontario, meat-packing plant in spring 2011, according to a recent announcement from the privately held agribusiness giant.

Minnetonka-based Cargill said the decision affects 600 unionized employees and 90 management positions. At the same time that Cargill is closing the Toronto facility, it plans to increase operations at its Guelph, Ontario, meat-packing plant, a move that will create an additional 200 jobs.

“The decision to discontinue operations at the Toronto facility was very difficult; however, it was made knowing we had the ability to optimize our supply chain and provide real and enhanced value through leveraging our existing operations in Guelph,” said Jason Kuan, vice president and general manager of Cargill’s Case Ready Canada business.

Cargill said it plans to provide career-transition and family support for the laid-off Toronto workers.

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